Father Alec Reid Dies

A priest who played a pivotal role in relations between the IRA and the British government throughout the Troubles has died aged 82.

Father Alec Reid, who was based on the Falls Road in west Belfast, died in a Dublin hospital this morning.

He and the Reverend Harold Good were the two church witnesses to the IRA's decommissioning in 2005.

Fr Reid was a friend of Gerry Adams and had arranged talks between the Sinn Féin leader and SDLP leader John Hume, leading to the 1993 Downing Street Declaration.

A statement released by his church said: "The Redemptorists wish to announce the death of our colleague Fr Alec Reid.

"He died peacefully in a Dublin Hospital at 6.40 am this morning.

"We extend our deepest sympathy to his family, friends and those who got to know him as a Redemptorist in the various roles and ministries he held.

"He will be especially remembered for his work in the Northern Ireland peace process."

Former SDLP leader John Hume said: "Fr Alec was not simply a 'go between' in the early days of negotiating for peace. He was an active player in fighting for an end to violence. Few will forget the image of Fr Reid lying between Corporals David Howes and Derek Wood in an attempt to save their lives in March 1988. His dedication was to all people, regardless of their background.

"While we mourn the loss of a great man, we must also celebrate the legacy of peace and an opportunity to reconcile our people that he gave to us. It is an opportunity we cannot afford to waste."

First Minister Peter Robinson said: "I was saddened to hear of the death of Fr. Alec Reid and I convey my sincere sympathies to his entire family and friends at this time.

"Alec opposed violence and understood that the key to making progress was through reaching out to others regardless of their background.”

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said: "I was very sorry to learn of the passing of Fr. Alec Reid and extend my sympathies to his family, fellow Priests, Brothers of the Redemptorist Order and friends.

"He played a crucial role in helping to initiate and build the peace process and all that has flowed from it. He understood the need for democracy and dialogue and was prepared to make personal sacrifices in order to deliver for the good of everyone in society.

"Fr. Alec Reid was a man of great dignity and his service to society embodied decency and respect for everyone. He made an immeasurable contribution to the peace process and he has left a legacy of peace and hope for a better future for all."

West Belfast MLA Alex Attwood said: "On behalf of the SDLP I want to convey our deep sympathy to Fr Reid’s family and to his fellow priests and Brothers.

"Father Reid made an immense contribution to peace and to the lives of countless numbers of people. I recall on one occasion listening to him give a view on “the role of Christian witness in a situation of violent conflict”. That was the mark of his contribution, of a deep Christian witness in the most difficult circumstances.

"He lived out his faith conviction in the lives of people. This place and our people are the better for all of his work. I want to express particular condolences with his great friend and partner in peace, Fr Gerry Reynolds."

(IT/MH)